Tonight’s top headlines from Virginia Times span a deadly mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan, Trump’s slipping approval ratings, extreme weather alerts, and a Supreme Court appeal by Ghislaine Maxwell. From fatal collisions to science-backed advice on saying no to phone calls, here’s your complete evening wrap-up for July 28.

Five Killed in Midtown Manhattan Shooting; NYPD Officer Among Victims
A deadly mass shooting in Midtown Manhattan has left five people dead, including an off-duty NYPD officer, according to police sources. The motive remains under investigation as authorities search for possible accomplices.
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Why You Should Decline More Phone Calls — Backed by Science
New research shows that constantly taking unscheduled phone calls disrupts focus, elevates stress, and reduces overall productivity. Experts suggest building boundaries and scheduling calls to protect your mental clarity.
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Two Children Killed in Boat Collision Near Miami’s Hibiscus Island
A tragic boat collision involving a barge and a sailboat carrying children on a summer camp outing has left two dead and several others injured. The U.S. Coast Guard is investigating the crash that occurred off Hibiscus Island.
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Ghislaine Maxwell Appeals to U.S. Supreme Court, Citing Broken Deal
Convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell has filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing her plea deal was violated by federal prosecutors. Her legal team claims new grounds for dismissal.
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Gallup: Trump Approval Drops to 37% as Independents Withdraw Support
President Donald Trump’s job approval rating has hit a new low of 37%, driven by plummeting support from independent voters, according to Gallup. The 10-point drop since January raises questions about his re-election strategy.
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Severe Storms, Flash Floods, and Dangerous Heat Grip U.S. This Week
A wave of extreme weather is sweeping across the U.S., with a derecho threatening the Midwest, flash flooding in the Mississippi Valley, and a dangerous heatwave gripping the Southeast. Authorities urge caution and preparation.
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What We Know: The Background Behind Trump’s Shortened Ceasefire Deadline to Russia
President Trump has reduced his ceasefire deadline to Russia from 50 days to just 10–12 days, citing the success of the Cambodia–Thailand peace deal. Here’s what led to the policy shift and what it could mean for Ukraine.
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What You Need to Know About the Cambodia–Thailand Ceasefire Deal
Cambodia and Thailand have agreed to an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” following Malaysia-led mediation. The breakthrough ends weeks of escalating border conflict and opens the door to further ASEAN-led peace efforts.
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Arizona Woman Sentenced to Over 8 Years for Role in $17M North Korean IT Fraud Scheme
An Arizona woman has been sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for helping North Korean IT workers infiltrate U.S. companies and launder millions through fraudulent contracts. The DOJ called it a rare national security case with global implications.
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Russian Air Strike Injures 8 in Kyiv; Zelensky Warns of Intensifying Drone Warfare
A Russian missile strike in Kyiv’s Darnytskyi District injured at least eight civilians, including a child. Ukrainian President Zelensky warned of escalating drone warfare in response to continued Russian attacks on urban centers.
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Opinion | Trump’s EU Trade Deal: Strategic Win or Uneven Gamble?
President Trump’s newly signed EU–U.S. trade agreement promises tariff reductions and industrial expansion, but critics warn of an uneven playing field. A closer look at whether this is a bold strategic success or a political gamble.
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Markets Surge After Landmark EU–US Trade Deal
Stock markets surged globally after the U.S. and EU reached a trade deal reducing tariffs and harmonizing regulatory frameworks. Analysts say the move stabilizes economic ties amid global uncertainty.
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Editorial: How Virginia Times Produces Original, Standards-Driven Journalism
From source verification to visual design, Virginia Times breaks down how every report is created with transparency, originality, and public accountability at its core.
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